Trail des Grands Ducs
The first night trail in Orne in the Écouves forest
About Trail des Grands Ducs
The Trail des Grands Ducs in Alençon is the first night trail in the Orne department. Organized every autumn by a team of enthusiasts, it invites runners to explore the trails of the Écouves forest starting from Radon, by the light of their headlamps and under the watchful eye of the European eagle-owl, the emblematic nocturnal bird of prey of this state-owned forest. Four distances — 8, 15, 25, and 40 km — allow all levels to experience the unique thrill of a night race in one of Normandy's most beautiful forest massifs. A Nordic hike completes the program.
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The Écouves Forest: Normandy's Largest Forest Massif
The state-owned forest of Écouves, with its 15,000 hectares of beech, oak, and coniferous trees, is the largest forest massif in Normandy. Its rolling trails, mysterious undergrowth, and highest points — the Écouves signal, at 413 meters, is the highest point in western Normandy — make it an ideal playground for trail runners.
It is in this forest that the European eagle-owl (Bubo bubo) lives, the largest nocturnal bird of prey in Europe, whose deep hooting echoes through the autumn nights. This majestic bird has given its name to the trail, creating a poetic link between the night race and the secret life of the forest.
The First Night Trail in Orne
The Trail des Grands Ducs is unique in being an entirely nocturnal trail race. Runners set off at dusk, equipped with headlamps, for a unique sensory experience. Trails familiar by day transform into mysterious paths where every sound, every shadow, every moonbeam through the foliage adds to the intensity of the race.
Running at night in the Écouves forest provides incomparable sensations: concentration is heightened, senses are awakened, and the beauty of the forest is revealed from a completely different perspective.
Four Distances for All Profiles
The event offers four courses adapted to all levels:
- 8 km: Discovery trail, accessible to beginners and families
- 15 km: Nature trail with significant elevation gain in the undergrowth
- 25 km: Challenging trail for experienced runners
- 40 km: Night ultra for endurance enthusiasts
A Nordic hike/walk is also offered to allow non-runners to enjoy the magic of the Écouves forest at night.
Atmosphere and Camaraderie
The atmosphere of the Trail des Grands Ducs is both sporting and friendly. The aid stations, enlivened by enthusiastic volunteers, offer warm moments in the heart of the forest. The finish line, lit by torches and lanterns, is a magical moment for both runners and spectators. A refreshment stand and hot food welcome finishers in the joy of the accomplished effort.
Trail des Grands Ducs — edition 2026
Trail des Grands Ducs d'Alençon 2026. Night trail in Écouves forest. 4 distances from 8 to 40 km and hike / Nordic walk.
Trail des Grands Ducs - 2026 Edition
The Trail des Grands Ducs will take place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, starting from Radon, in the Écouves forest.
Runners can choose from four distances — 8, 15, 25, and 40 km — to experience the unique thrill of a night trail in Normandy's largest forest massif. A hike / Nordic walk is also part of the program.
Highlights Trail des Grands Ducs 2026
- Night trail in Écouves forest
- 4 distances: 8, 15, 25, and 40 km
- Hike / Nordic walk
- Normandy's largest forest massif
- Unique night atmosphere
Prices Trail des Grands Ducs 2026
Practical information — Trail des Grands Ducs
Access
Radon is located about 10 km north of Alençon, on the edge of the Écouves forest.
- By car: From Alençon, follow D1 towards Écouves/Radon (approx. 15 min).
- Parking: Free, signposted parking lots at the race start.
Location
Start and finish in Radon, 61250. Courses in the Écouves state-owned forest.
Schedule
Staggered starts in the late afternoon and evening depending on the distance.
Prices
Paid registration depending on the chosen distance.
Equipment
Headlamp mandatory (with spare batteries). Trail running shoes. Warm clothing recommended.
Contact
- Trail des Grands Ducs
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: traildesgrandsducs.com
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Trail des Grands Ducs at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Trail des Grands Ducs
Forêt domaniale d'Écouves
Radon, 61250 Radon